Here at CST Group, CPAs, PC, we value the relationships that we have with our clients and we always enjoy getting to know you better! We wanted to help you get to know us a little better too.
Name: Rachel Wacek
Title: Senior Manager
How did you get started in accounting?
I took an accounting class in high school, which touched on accounting concepts but was predominately a bookkeeping course. I loved how if everything was accounted for properly, the records would be in balance. College courses were completely different from my high school experience but they suited my analytical nature and I have never looked back.
What was your first accounting job?
My first full-time accounting job was at Pep Boys, Inc. in Philadelphia. I did some financial statement variance analysis and was responsible for the accounting of “Pep Dollars” (their form of store credit) and supply to all of their stores.
How long have you been doing what you do?
I have been in public accounting since late 1996 and have just been through my nineteenth “tax season.” I started with a sole practitioner in Lock Haven, Pennsylvania and when life brought me to Northern Virginia in 2001, I was happy to find a place with CST Group.
What do you think is the most important aspect of your job?
I think the most important aspect of my job is client service. CST Group prides itself, as do I, in providing exceptional service to our clients. Whether it is their annual tax returns or financial statements, or questions that arise during the year, I hope my clients will continue to look to me as a valuable resource.
Where can we find you when you’re not working?
Definitely with my kids and likely at one of their soccer games or practices. My older son recently started on a travel soccer team and we have a great group of parents to spend time with. I never imagined how exciting and nerve-wracking it could be to watch nine year olds play soccer!
Where did you go to school?
I went to a small college, Bloomsburg University, in my hometown. Living at home for a couple of years provided me with the financial means to do a semester abroad at Sheffield Hallam University in England as well.
What is your favorite place to go on vacation?
Definitely the beach, but now that I have young kids the beach isn’t as much of a “vacation” as it used to be. A nice day at the beach with a good book is one of the best ways to spend a relaxing day.
What is your favorite sport team and why?
Although I don’t watch that much anymore I have a real affinity for the New York Knicks. I thought I became a fan in the early ‘90s but since I was born in the midst of their 1973 championship run against the Lakers (whom my dad is a fan of,) I may have been indoctrinated from birth.
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